The Drake Devonshire
One of Prince Edward County’s best boutique hotels, the Drake Devonshire has been knocking socks off since it opened its doors back in 2014. Part of the fun and quirky Drake brand, offers luxury lakeside living at its finest, with a fun and funky twist.
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario in the centre of Wellington, the Drake Devonshire is right in the heart of the action, but still offers seclusion, privacy and perfect stargazing opportunities. It’s also just a stone’s throw from Wellington Rotary Beach—one of Prince Edward County’s best swimming beaches—and is surrounded by some of the island’s best wineries.
Bringing a taste of city cool to the County, Drake-by-the-Lake is open year-round, with 13 stunning rooms to choose from. Or you can just swing by to check out the restaurant and bar with its amazing lakeside vistas, inspired menu and perfectly paired wines.
The Drake’s first foray into country living, the Drake Devonshire had a long and varied history before it became the vibrant country-meets-city-chic spot that it is today. In fact, its story begins over 150 years ago—way back in 1860, when it started its life as an iron foundry.
Growing from its humble beginnings, in 1897 (or so), it became a much-loved family home, which is when many of the gorgeous period features were added, like the fireplaces, stained glass windows and the huge oak staircase that takes up pride of place in the main hall.
Over the next 80 years, the house passed from family to family, becoming a lodge for tourists and a retirement village before finally, in the 1970s, it found its true calling as a B&B named the Devonshire Inn. In 2012, Drake Hotel Properties fell in love with its history, its location and its potential.
Loved by all hotel and restaurant/bar guests alike, the Drake’s arty touches, above and beyond attitude and gorgeous lakeside location helped it to quickly rise to the top of the list for boutique accommodation in Prince Edward County. The aesthetic blends smart cosmopolitan city vibes and a rustic farm-house feel with a big emphasis on art. 13 individually-designed rooms feature plenty of those extra special touches—like private fireplaces, in-room spa services, eco-friendly products, a games room, in-house tours and picnic basket hire.
For up-to-date information and details on the Drake Devonshire, we recommend you visit their website. For information about other places of interest to explore nearby, keep scrolling to see what Destination Ontario recommends.
More about The Drake Devonshire
Part of the famous Drake Hotel brand—which has become synonymous with arty, stylish properties, good food, great hospitality, quirky touches and stellar service—the Drake Devonshire is one of two country retreats they offer, the other being the Drake Motor Inn, which is just up the road.
If you weren’t sold on the Drake Devonshire already, then heading down for a drink or meal in the glass-fronted lake-view bar/restaurant might just seal the deal. Prince Edward County is home to some incredible local produce (just check out the farm stalls as you explore the island!) and the Drake’s chefs pride themselves on marrying the best island ingredients with seasonal inspiration to create a menu that is both enticing and exciting.
There are classics, like steak frites and burgers, as well as more unusual pairings, plenty of vegan and veggie options and delectable desserts. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you can also get your meals delivered straight to your room if you don’t feel like leaving the comfort of your big cosy bed.
The bar is equally as inspired, with plenty of cocktail favourites, local wines, beers, ciders and soft drinks to suit every palate.
More reasons to visit the Drake Devonshire (and Prince Edward County)
A popular year-round destination, there is always something to do in Prince Edward County—and at the Drake Devonshire! Summer is when the County really shines, with plenty of folks heading to Lake Ontario to soak up the island vibes, especially at Sandbanks Provincial Park, home to some of the county’s best beaches, and just a short drive from the Drake Devonshire.
Other popular activities include wine tastings, checking out the island’s Art Trails, exploring Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park and shopping, with plenty of amazing boutiques and antique stores to explore.
In the fall, you can check out the autumn colours and the harvest produce from the local farms, which are always incredible. In spring, the County is a wildlife and nature lover’s paradise, with migrating birds and flowers bursting into life.
And, while you might not imagine an island getaway in the winter, Prince Edward County—and the Drake Devonshire—are pulling all the stops out to make it extra appealing. When the snow falls, the island turns into a true winter wonderland. It’s quiet, so you get some amazing places all to yourself. Warm up by the fire with smores and cosy up in the bath, and during the day, go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing or check out Drake’s very own ice rink! Perfect.
Getting to the Drake Devonshire
Right on the shores of Lake Ontario, the Drake Devonshire is located in the scenic town of Wellington in Prince Edward County. About 2.5 hours drive from Toronto, three hours from Ottawa and four hours from Montreal—the best way to get out to Drake-by-the-Lake is by car (there is onsite parking available).
Plus, having your own car means you’ll be set for exploring all the amazing sites around the County, too.
However, if self-drive is not an option, speak to the Drake’s friendly staff who can help organise sightseeing transport and wine tours.
Last updated: August 18, 2023